You are here

What Is High Quality?

When you walk into a high-quality pre-K classroom you immediately see learning occurring. The following elements are critical to providing the sense of purpose, organization, and excitement that creates the best results for children.

Teachers

Teachers in high-quality pre-k programs hold bachelor's degrees and have received specialized training in early childhood education.

Teacher aides have a child development associate credential, at a minimum.

Teachers and aides are required to devote at least 15 hours each year to appropriate professional development.

Teachers and aides are paid salaries and receive benefits that are on par with those of K-12 teachers and aides.

High-quality programs recruit teachers and aides who reflect the cultural diversity of the children and families they serve.

Families

High-quality programs respect and support each family's home language and at-home teaching efforts.

Family members and teachers exchange information about the child's strengths and successes, favorite activities, and learning progress.

Family members are engaged in the program through conferences with teachers, home visits, opportunities to assist in the classroom, and other activities.

Family members are offered information about nutrition, parenting, and social services, when needed.

Classrooms

High-quality pre-k programs allow no more than 20 children in a classroom.

Each class has no more than ten children for every one teacher.

Curriculum

A high-quality pre-k curriculum sets goals specific to pre-k and uses learning and developmental standards that are research-based,

age-appropriate, and aligned with the state's K-12 standards.

The curriculum builds on each child's interests and natural curiosity and gives children opportunities to direct their own learning.